24th January, 2025
By Adejoke Adeleye
The Chairman of the Southern Governors Forum and Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has extended heartfelt condolences to the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, following the passing of his elder brother, Sunday Makinde.
The late Makinde passed away on Friday, 24 January, at the age of 65.
In a statement released in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Friday, Governor Abiodun expressed the forum’s deep sorrow over the sudden demise of the deceased, noting that the loss of a sibling is a profoundly painful experience that is often challenging to endure.
The statement urged Makinde to find strength in his Christian faith, which teaches that God’s love and will surpass human understanding.
Abiodun also highlighted that while Engineer Sunday Makinde may not have reached a ripe old age, his distinguished and impactful life leaves behind a legacy worth celebrating.
“On behalf of myself and the members of the Southern Governors Forum, I commiserate with my brother, His Excellency, Engineer Seyi Makinde, on the passing of his elder brother, Engineer Sunday Makinde, in the early hours of Friday, 24 January,” the statement read.
“No doubt, this is an extremely painful and difficult loss, particularly as the deceased was not reported to have been unwell. However, in line with Biblical teachings, we take comfort in the promise of eternal life and the assurance that we shall meet again in God’s Kingdom, where parting will be no more.”
Abiodun further urged the Oyo State Governor to accept the incident as an act of God and draw solace from the impactful life his late brother lived.
He noted that Sunday Makinde was blessed with children and grandchildren who would continue his legacy.
The governor also prayed for God’s comfort and strength for the deceased’s immediate family, including his wife, children, and the extended Makinde family.
“May the Good Lord console the wife, children, and entire Makinde family, granting them the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” the statement concluded.
